It concerned us mightily to read in a recent story by News staff writer Temi Fadayomi that many Northeast Michiganders are failing to show up for jury duty.

Alpena County Clerk Keri Bertrand said that individuals are called to serve in a jury pool for three months, during which time they may be called into court to serve on a jury. She told Fadayomi that, especially toward the end of each three-month term, participation has been lacking.

She said, for example, the county might call in 80 potential jurors and only 50 show up. That’s a nearly 40% non-participation rate.

We call that unacceptable.

Failing to show up for jury duty can lead to fines or even a bench warrant for the no-show’s arrest.

But that shouldn’t be the main motivating factor.

Our legal system guarantees that individuals accused of a crime have the right to face a jury of their peers. That means ordinary Northeast Michiganders who live and work alongside the accused must decide the fate of the accused.

That system guarantees the government doesn’t by itself have the power to jail someone. That system guarantees fairness and forces the government to prove every case.

That’s a duty we all should hold in high regard, and should take seriously.

So, if you are called to serve in a jury pool, do so not only willingly, but eagerly, knowing you’re doing your community a great service.